The Department of State Services (DSS) has rejected proposals to permit foreign organisations to finance security and intelligence operations through a proposed trust fund, warning that such arrangements could undermine national sovereignty and compromise operational secrecy.

The agency made its position known during a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives Committee on National Security and Intelligence on a bill seeking to establish the DSS Trust Fund. Lawmakers are considering the proposal alongside two other bills aimed at strengthening intelligence training and research capabilities.

While supporting the creation of a dedicated funding mechanism for intelligence activities, the DSS urged lawmakers to remove provisions that would allow grants, donations and endowments from international organisations.

According to the agency, foreign funding could expose sensitive intelligence methods, procurement processes and deployment strategies through donor reporting requirements and other disclosure obligations.

The DSS also argued that external financing could create undue influence over Nigeria’s security priorities, which it said should remain focused on domestic challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry and kidnapping.

Beyond opposing foreign contributions, the agency called for a more predictable funding structure for the proposed trust fund. It recommended a fixed funding formula rather than annual allocations determined at the discretion of the National Assembly, arguing that stable financing is essential for long-term intelligence planning and rapid response to emerging threats.

The hearing comes amid growing concern over Nigeria’s security challenges and increased calls for sustainable funding for intelligence and counterterrorism operations. The outcome of the proposed legislation is expected to shape how the country finances and manages its intelligence architecture in the years ahead. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.